Security licence risk assessment

Last updated on August 16, 2024

Learn what a risk assessment is and why it happens.


About risk assessment

Risk assessment is a suitability review. It determines if someone can have a security worker or business licence. 

Risk assessment may happen when someone first applies for a licence or when they're already licensed. Reasons include:

  • Criminal charges or convictions
  • Mental health conditions (to assess whether they may have an effect on security work)
  • Concerning incidents or circumstances

What happens during risk assessment

During a risk assessment, Security Programs Division (SPD) sends you a letter that explains why the assessment is happening. You have a chance to give more details and explain why you should have a security licence. SPD may contact you for more information.

If you have a valid (not expired) security licence, you can usually keep doing security work during the risk assessment.

SPD will let you know the outcome of the risk assessment. If the licence is refused, suspended or cancelled, SPD sends a letter that explains why. You can ask SPD to reconsider the decision.